Maryland Heights, MO: Last week, the Missouri Workforce Housing Association (MOWHA) hosted its highly anticipated 2025 Conference at the Sheraton Westport Chalet Hotel St. Louis, bringing together a dynamic group of housing professionals, developers, legislators, advocates, and industry leaders. From insightful panel discussions to award celebrations and valuable networking, this year’s event was a powerful showcase of forward-thinking solutions in affordable housing.
With much gratitude, we want to recognize all our 2025 Conference Sponsors – THANK YOU! Your support made this important gathering possible.
Kicking Off with Connection
The conference began with a warm welcome, updates from MOWHA leadership, and introductions of new members. Attendees gathered in the Versailles Ballroom to hear from Executive Director Jeff Smith and Fulson Housing Group President Matt Fulson, who set the tone for a productive and inspiring day ahead.
Insightful Sessions & Dialogue
MHDC Panel
The morning continued with a candid and constructive conversation during the MHDC Panel, moderated by Mike Duffy, Executive Vice President of Roanoke Construction. This session highlighted the deepened relationship between MOWHA and MHDC leadership, resulting in recent policy shifts such as updated developer fees and eased rent restrictions. Panelists Jennifer Schmidt, Julie Smith, and Alissa Ice provided timely updates and took audience questions, marking an important step forward in transparency and collaboration.
Celebrating Success: Lunch & Awards
A midday break brought well-deserved recognition and inspiration. Attendees gathered to honor impactful developments and individuals who are making progress in affordable housing. Awards presented included:
- Legislator of the Year Award
- Emerging Leader Award
- Excellence in Advocacy Award
- Innovations in Affordable Housing Award
- Kurt Wallace Vision Award
A featured local LIHTC property, Elm Ridge Senior Living in Hazelwood, Missouri, was also highlighted, offering a glimpse into the meaningful work taking place across Missouri.
Afternoon Breakout Sessions: Expertise in Action
Attendees had the opportunity to tailor their experience with breakout sessions diving deep into industry topics:
LIHTC 201
Ben Meyer and Ryan Hatten of Applegate & Thorne-Thomsen, P.C. shared technical guidance on acquisition/rehabilitation deals, helping attendees navigate the complex tax and legal landscape of LIHTC transactions.
Permanent Supportive Housing
Moderated by Jordan Gibson, this thoughtful discussion featured Cynthia Duffe, Heather Bradley-Geary, and Tony Hilkin, who explored how Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) models are being successfully implemented through cross-sector partnerships, data-driven outcomes, and resident-centered design.
DC Policy Updates
In the “One Big Beautiful Bill” session, Chris Hite and Julie DeGraaf, led by moderator Jeff Smith, dissected what’s happening on Capitol Hill—from LIHTC enhancements to funding updates for CDBG and HOME—and emphasized the importance of real-time advocacy.
Year 15 Panel
Panelists Brian Beck, Chad Hartle, Deb Giffin, Nick Kinnaman, and Philip Minden discussed the long-term outcomes and challenges of Year 15 LIHTC transitions, especially in homeownership. They offered insight on operational sustainability, innovative financing models, and how to support first-time homebuyers through this critical milestone.
Legislative Panel: Policy in Real Time
Despite a surprise special session in Jefferson City that called several Senators away, a fantastic panel of Missouri House members kept the momentum going. Moderated by Jeff Smith, the session featured Rep. Kimberly-Ann Collins, Rep. Brad Christ, Rep. David Casteel, Jorgen Schlemeier, and Sen. Tracy McCreery, who shared updates on tax credit programs, affordable housing priorities, and how recent natural disasters have heightened housing needs across the state.
Beyond the conference
Even though the rain tried, it couldn’t stop us — we still made time for a round of golf and an exciting pickleball game.
Closing Reflections
The 2025 MOWHA Conference wrapped up on a high note with a well-attended evening reception, offering attendees a lively atmosphere to reconnect with colleagues and build new partnerships. The energy and camaraderie of the event were a fitting conclusion to a day filled with education, advocacy, and meaningful exchange. From engaging policy discussions to celebrating achievements and exploring fresh solutions, the conference affirmed MOWHA’s role as a driving force in shaping the future of affordable housing in Missouri.
Thank you again to the sponsors, speakers, panelists, and attendees—your engagement and expertise are what make this event so impactful. We can’t wait to see what we’ll accomplish together in the year ahead.